VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) – Residents of San Luis village in Cervantes town, a geographically isolated and disadvantaged area in Ilocos Sur, now benefit from improved crop transportation thanks to the newly constructed farm-to-market road by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Almost four months after its completion on July 22, farmers can transport their crops more quickly, including rice, vegetables, and tobacco, without compromising freshness.
In an interview with Punong Barangay Edward Das-ao on Tuesday, Nov. 12, he said, “This new road is beneficial for us as it facilitates easier travel for residents, especially for students commuting to school as the road is located between Sitios Liqueo and Namecbecan, and for farmers transporting their crops to the public market, given that our barangay produces the highest quantity of crops sold in the market.”
Das-ao said their travel time from the barangay to the municipal proper has also been reduced from over one hour to approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
“Back then, it was challenging for us when the road was in poor condition, especially during the rainy season. We often had to pull our vehicles out of the mud while transporting crops to the Poblacion area. With the new road, travel time has decreased to just 25 to 30 minutes by jeep or motorcycle from Sitio Liqueo to the public market,” he added.
The DPWH stated that the previous 2.50-meter-wide one-lane road was challenging for vehicles passing each other; now the new farm-to-market road is 590 meters long and features a 6.10-meter-wide concrete pavement built with 0.25-meter-thick Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP).
It also features 277.20 meters of stone masonry in intermittent sections to ensure stability and safety, providing essential slope protection.
“We are very grateful to the DPWH, the local government, and all the relevant offices that helped construct the new road to the Poblacion area. Thank you for addressing our barangay’s problem,” Das-ao ended.
The Barangay San Luis farm-to-market concreting project, implemented by the DPWH Ilocos Sur 2nd District Engineering Office, highlights the government’s commitment to supporting rural development.
This initiative provides communities with essential infrastructure to enhance agricultural success and improve the quality of life for residents, thereby promoting sustainable growth in the remote areas of Ilocos Sur. (AMB/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)